Name: Savory Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes; 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot); 1 cup beef broth; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 pound pappardelle pasta; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes; Optional: freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for serving

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Savory Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu is the perfect dish for those cozy evenings when you crave something hearty and flavorful. This comforting recipe combines tender slow-cooked short ribs with silky pappardelle pasta, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile that requires minimal effort. As the slow cooker does all the hard work, you can spend your time relaxing or preparing a simple side salad. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Slow Cooker Short

There are numerous reasons to adore this Savory Slow Cooker Recipe. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The slow cooking process ensures that the slow cooker short ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the flavors deepen and develop beautifully over time. Additionally, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you. This dish also provides a comforting taste of Italian cuisine, perfect for family gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful slow cooker dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Short

Gather these items:

3-4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
1 cup beef broth
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 pound pappardelle pasta
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Optional: freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for serving

How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Short Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the short ribs dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Sear the ribs in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer to slow cooker.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add diced onions, carrots, and celery; cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize.
Step 5: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to darken slightly.
Step 7: Pour in red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up brown bits; reduce wine by half (about 3 minutes).
Step 8: Pour vegetable and wine mixture over ribs in slow cooker.
Step 9: Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves; stir gently to combine.
Step 10: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until meat is fall-apart tender and sauce thickened.
Step 11: Remove ribs, shred meat with forks, discard bones and excess fat.
Step 12: Return shredded meat to sauce, stir to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 13: If sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken.
Step 14: Bring large pot of salted water to boil; cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes).
Step 15: Drain pasta, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
Step 16: Toss pasta with ragu, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
Step 17: Serve hot, topped with Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Savory Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta - Savory Slow Cooker Short - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Savory Slow Cooker Short

Keep these in mind:

Choose ribs with good marbling for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a depth of flavor.
If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Short

Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. It also pairs wonderfully with a light red wine. You can even use the ragu as a filling for savory crepes or as a topping for baked potatoes for a quick meal.

How to Store and Reheat Savory Slow Cooker Short

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This meal is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors continue to improve after a day in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Slow Cooker Short

What’s the secret to perfect Savory Slow Cooker Short?

The secret lies in choosing quality meat and allowing it to cook low and slow. This ensures a tender, flavorful result that melts in your mouth.

Can I make Savory Slow Cooker Short ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it a day ahead and let the flavors meld together overnight in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Savory Slow Cooker Short?

Common mistakes include not searing the meat and overcooking it. Always sear for maximum flavor and keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the meat stays tender.

Variations of Savory Slow Cooker Short You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a twist on flavor. For a hearty option, add root vegetables such as potatoes or parsnips. You could also consider a savory slow cooker beef stew by adding more vegetables and broth.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try these mini cranberry cheesecakes for a festive dessert. You might also enjoy caramel apple cheesecake bars for a delightful twist on a classic.

For more information on the benefits of slow cooking, visit Healthline.